Ison's Nursery & Vineyard

Grape Vines & Berries

P.O. Box 190
Brooks, 30205 (United States)
1-800-733-0324
(770) 599-1727

Reviews:

positives
neutrals
negatives

Displaying the 50 most recent reviews

RatingContent
Negative
On May 4, 2023, rose2001 (4 reviews) from Jersey City, NJ

I bought many plants online, this purchase from Ison's Nursery unfortunately has the worst experience. They have very little customer service, phone call is not answered or returned, emails took several weeks to get any reply. In the end my grape vine didn't leaf out and they wouldn't replace or refund the order. They just gave me a partial credit for next year. Really?!

Neutral
On Jul 13, 2022, Bountiful0907 (8 reviews) from Bountiful, UT

Posted on August 23, 2021, updated July 13, 2022 Posted on July 14, 2021, updated August 23, 2021 Posted on July 14, 2021, updated July 14, 2021 Posted on July 7, 2021, updated July 14, 2021 First to give an understanding of who I am... I live in zone 7a and I grow exotic fruit trees such as pomegranate, fig, and banana. I have over 50 fruit trees on my property which get the best of care. I am a very good gardener. I am also the President of my own gardening social group of over 200 members. I have ordered online many times throughout my life. This is the first order I ever placed with Ison's. During the winter of 2020 I placed an online order for one Salavatski Pomegranate and one Jiro Persimmon. My credit card was charged and April of 2021 a box arrived with one dormant Jiro Persimmon and a letter apologizing that they were out of stock of Salavatski Pomegranate. The letter gave me options to do nothing, receive a reimbursement, or wait and have a tree shipped next season. I sent an email... I chose to have the tree shipped next season but received no reply. So I called everyday for 3 weeks until I got an answer and let them know verbally my decision. I received no notice of a new order being created or expected shipping date. Why is this company advertising a product that is already sold out 2 seasons ahead of shipping season? That borders fraud but.... I was being patient due to Covid difficulties the company might be having. I immediately planted the Jiro Persimmon after it arrived and pampered it every day. Day after day went by and the twig did not leaf out. I scratched the bark and the top of the twig looked somewhat green and mostly brown but the grafted root stock was black on the outside and not green when I scratched it. I sent an email in early June notifying Ison's the twig has still not responded and received nothing but an automated response. I have called, and called, and called so many times I cannot count. My messages and emails have never been responded to. Here it is July. Only a few months away from Autumn and still I have nothing of value to show for the chunk of money they took from me. I have been patient with them.... If they would have at least responded to one email or answered my phone calls I would not be placing this negative review. I recieved an email notice from them that they were having a pre-sale for winter shipping telling customers to order early because it looked like they would sell out quickly. Seriously? They are going to sell out there products before shipping the products they already owe to previous customers??? Again, I made every effort to contact them to find out if they received my Persimmon claim or if my pomegranate tree was expected to ship. Nothing. No response. From my end... it appears they took my money and threw me under the bus. Based on this experience I cannot in good conscience recommend any customer to buy products from this company. Is it really so impossible to open your email and say "Hi." during in a 4 month time period?


On July 14th, 2021, Bountiful0907 added the following: Still trying to contact Ison's... still no response. I went to their facebook page and saw that they were posting on face book regularly. The last post was made the day before so I posted a message telling them I was trying to make contact. I kindly asked if they could respond to my messages. My comment was deleted and they continued to respond on facebook after my comment was deleted. I wish I had never placed an order with ISON'S and I can only hope that they will someday send me the products I ordered.
On July 14th, 2021, Bountiful0907 added the following: Correction: They continued to post on their facebook page after deleting my comment to them asking for a response.
On August 23rd, 2021, Bountiful0907 added the following: End of August. And still no response to emails and phone calls.
On July 13th, 2022, Bountiful0907 changed the rating from negative to neutral and added the following: July 2022. This issue is partially resolved. I was sent another notification that the pomegranate I purchased two years ago was still out of stock. I requested a refund. To my surprise someone began to respond. I asked them about the JIRO Persimmon and sent them a link to this review so they could see what happened. The person responded with an apology that this had not been resolved back in 2020. They issued me full store credit for the JIRO and full refund check for the Pomegranate. I could see that the person responding to me was shocked that I had this unfornate experience with them and wanted to make it right. I assume like everyone else they had a severe shortage of help during Covid and my situation somehow fell through the cracks. I am willing to give them a second chance by using the store credit and see what the result is.

Negative
On May 30, 2022, adsfghbsr (2 reviews) from St Paul, MN

Now that I'm staring at a stone dead fig I check their site and find they have the worthless guarantee that allows them to swindle folk. Any site that guarantees their plants will show up alive and not the next winter, is a place to avoid. So when they say violette de bordeaux will be good in zone 5.. Well as a real nurseryman will tell you HAHAHAHAHAHA. No figs do well in zone 5. As a great nurseryman pointed out "The Chicago hardy fig, is the most unfortunately named plant. Nothing that dies to the ground is 'hardy' if it doesn't do that normally.". You want to be Zone 7-8 before you start considering outdoor figs. So I'm just out the money and an irreplaceable year of my life because I shopped with Isons.

Positive
On Apr 22, 2022, Inkedguy11 (1 reviews) from Cuttingsville, VT (Zone 4b)

This was my first time ordering from Ison’s. My new house needs some fruit trees and Ison’s had the best pricing for LARGE apple trees. I ordered 4 “Instant Orchard” apple trees, a combo cherry, a pear tree, some Honeyberries, a currant and a gooseberry. All of the plants arrived today in one gigantic box via UPS. I am beyond happy with the size of the trees, the prices I paid, and the obvious quality of what I received compared to what is available locally. These are not the pencil thin sticks I see everywhere. These are complete apple trees with 2” thick trunks, intact root systems, and good branching. They were packaged very well and suffered no damage from transit. Not one broken branch. The cherry and pear trees are also surprisingly big. The honeyberries, gooseberry, and currant are larger than any I can find for sale around here. I’m thrilled that ordering good quality trees online was this easy. Thanks Ison’s! I will be ordering again later this year so I can complete my “Instant Orchard” next spring and enjoy fresh fruit for many years to come. A+

Positive
On Mar 5, 2022, TGinTexas (4 reviews) from McKinney ,
United States

I saw the reviews for this company after I had placed my orders and I was pretty concerned. But I didn't have any negative experience with them - although I would not order combo trees again. Everything I ordered arrived on schedule. They notified me of shipment and I could track them. I haven't ordered live plants via mail shipments until this year so I can't compare well - but I have other orders - different company - that didn't give me any tracking. Isons was the only nursery with many of the plants I was searching for when I placed the orders. They were some of the cheapest prices I found online too - although one plant I found substantially cheaper locally now. Two shipments arrived right after Texas entered a warm spell which was perfect. All the plants arrived in great shape and many of them were much larger than I expected. Some of the trees are taller than I am. There are buds everywhere. It's easy to overlook my next paragraph because the plants are so nice. The only item I would improve upon is that I ordered 3 combo trees and I have no idea what varieties are grafted on the trees. Isons had the cheapest combo trees I saw on any site I could find. But you don't get to request any specific varieties. You sort of get what you get out of the possible varieties on each ad - usually out of about 8. I was good with that - it was like playing the lottery, but I do want to know WHAT varieties I have now. It's very possible I have grafts that won't even produce in Texas due to insufficient chill. I knew that was a risk, but I figured I'd know upon receipt - it'd be nice to know what the rootstock is too. It looks like I'll just have to grow a few years and hope for the best. If I were further north, I likely wouldn't care as much, but worth noting for anyone else that orders from them. Again, that was the risk I took knowingly - well sort of - I've never seen a tree locally without clear indication what the scions and rootstock are. I don't know if this is normal or not - but I'd put that on every label. I had planned on ordering another combo from them, but I won't do that again. I'd also look at ads closer to see if rootstock is listed. It is not listed on any of the trees I ordered. I am in no way unhappy - I'm really excited with how well they all look - they completely surpassed expectation. The box was 6 foot long and many trees are clipped at the top to even fit into the box. Again, I have no idea if that is normal for all nurseries but I don't feel like it is. I have no doubt I'll order from them again but I'll only order named varieties and where rootstock doesn't matter to me.

Negative
On Jul 26, 2021, Tayman44 (5 reviews) from West Boxford, MA

I've been raising strawberries in this location for 40 years. Switched to fall planting about 10 years ago with good success. Lat year, purchased 50 Sweet Charlie plugs from Ison's. Came in time, nice plugs, took well. Covered with straw for the winter. In spring, uncovered and plants looked OK. They grew well into large plants but---produced just a few berries and then just went wild. No strawberries for the first time in 40 years. Pulled them all out and will buy new plugs from another source.

Negative
On Jun 18, 2021, jeverhart (1 reviews) from Washington Grove, MD

I ordered a bareroot pomegranate that was shipped in early March 2021 by USPS and arrived 10 days later, which is a long time for a live plant. Tracking information was useless. However, I was assured by the company that they were aware of delivery delays and made an effort to keep the roots moist. Maybe. In any case, I planted it the day of arrival and it never put out any leaves by the time I gave up on it in June (following the company’s advice to wait). OK, sometimes a plant is DOA. The problem is that they will not provide a refund. Instead, they offer a replacement plant next year at half price and full shipping - a minor savings at best. Why would I order another tree when the first one was dead? Good customer service would have provided a full refund if they want to address customer concerns and not get negative reviews like this one.

Negative
On Mar 28, 2021, crazybanshee (6 reviews) from Clear Spring, MD

I believe this company may be out of business. I placed an online order for around $134 for trees. Got the automated response acknowledging the order. Waited a month without hearing anything. Emailed them. Waited a couple more weeks. Emailed them again. A couple weeks later opened a claim with paypal. I guess they didn't respond because paypal refunded my money. Do not order.

Positive
On Apr 15, 2020, NarrowWayFarm (16 reviews) from Brookville, OH

I was very pleased with the 4 in 1 cherry trees and honeyberry shrubs that I got from Ison's Nursery. My order was packaged well and the tree/shrub size puts other companies to absolute shame. Shipping time was acceptable as well. I wouldn't hesitate to do business with them again.

Positive
On Jan 9, 2020, parkerr (1 reviews) from Tyler, TX

I have ordered from Ison's two times. Their packing is great, and the plants arrived in good shape, with moist, flexible roots and long vines. (I bought the 2 years + vines.) I was impressed! The muscadines we planted last year look good this year, too. No fruit yet, but the plants aren't old enough yet to bear fruit. I like their catalog, and their how-to videos, too. Janet, answered the phone, the times I called, and has always been very helpful and friendly. I plan to buy from them again!

Negative
On Jul 20, 2019, mwieder (16 reviews) from Beachwood, OH

I have placed several orders with Ison's but won't any more. As they say, the measure of a company is not when everything is going correctly, but when something does not, and here Ison's has been incredibly disappointing. I also encourage all potential customers to read this to be spared the time and expense I was in advance. I have a house with limited planting space in my yard and therefore choose what I plant carefully. In 2015, I decided to use the only area in my yard fit for grapes to plant a Fry Seedless Muscadine marketed and sold by Ison's as "semi-self fertile." The plant was shipped healthy (I must say, as has been the case with all of the plants I have received from them) and quickly took root. Each successive year, I tended to the vine, fertilizing, pruning, spraying, etc. After 4 years, the vine looks incredibly healthy, has put out dozens of clusters of flowers and, most importantly, not a single grape. Now, some irregularity was expected - they are clear that some years there will be lots and others less, but there should be some. I have plenty of pollinators in my yard as well, as all of my fruit trees produce abundantly. When I contacted them earlier this year, they advised I plant another muscadine next to this one. When I responded I have no room for it, after 2 weeks, they finally admitted un-apologetically I should pull it out as it was unlikely to ever give fruit. It's incredible deceptive to advertise something as semi self fertile when it's not self fertile at all - as the vine will never produce grapes on it's own, they wasted all of my time and energy over 4 years! For some off you, the fact that they ship healthy plant matter may be sufficient to keep using them, but a company that misleads its customers and takes no responsibility for what they have done does not deserve my money.

Positive
On Feb 28, 2019, RebeccaLynn (25 reviews) from Winston Salem, NC (Zone 7a)

I ordered two seedless muscadine vines and a fig tree from Ison's. Within a week of the phone order my plants arrived. All were well packed and in good condition. The planting and care instructions were detailed and complete. I am pleased with my order.

Positive
On Sep 13, 2018, jiari (1 reviews) from Andover, MA

On 4/4/17, I ordered all bare root plants: (2) Salavatski Russian Pomegranate Tree (arrived with almost full leaves and 2-3 branches) (1) Li JuJube Tree (arrived with a few leaves) (2) Caroline Raspberry Plant (arrived looking like dead sticks) I can't remember if Ison's sent me tracking information, but I know either they did or UPS did as I knew the day the plants would arrive. I live in 01810. Plants arrived with some sort of gel. I planted 5 days after the plants arrived and followed Ison's instructions. Winter of 2017 was pretty rough with multiple subzero days. Status of plants as of 9/13/18 Pomeganates -> Rough remainder of the year. No winter protection and wet snow bent all the branches to death. Both grew back vigorously. I'll protect them this year. Raspberries -> pretty sure they arrived dead. I didn't complain as my waiting 5 days is a long time for a little stick. Li Jujube -> Grew well into the 3rd month. Deer ate it down to trunk. Li grew back a little, but I was pretty sure it was a goner. No winter protection and grafted Li died. Root stock lived and is flourishing. I'm going to buy a new one from Isons's and remove the root stock. Maybe others have higher expectations, but I think my experience with mail order plants was pretty good from Isons.

Positive
On Jul 30, 2018, SanJoseFool (21 reviews) from Canton, GA (Zone 7b)

Ordered a jujube, persimmon, and pomegranate from Ison late this spring. Plants were nice size for the price, packed well, and all are doing well. Only thing I didn't like was no info on when it was going to be shipped just showed up a couple weeks later at my door.

Negative
On May 21, 2018, kmrowan (4 reviews) from Jacksonville, FL (Zone 9a)

Buyer beware: this company does not stand behind their products. I purchased two trees and both shipped at the same time. Planted both right away, same way. After a couple of weeks, one tree leafed out and the other did not. I contacted the company & was told to give it more time. I did, but still no life. Their return policy is limited to 7 days. This is not enough time for dormant trees. My last email asking for help didn’t have a greeting, a “sorry about your tree” or anything along those lines. Just pasted return policy text. I really wanted to like & support this company, but this level of poor customer service means no more business with them. Just wanted to warn anyone else before they bought...it’s an unwise gamble.

Negative
On Apr 27, 2018, Hopegall (1 reviews) from Petersburg, TN

In February 2016 I purchased: Concord Bunch Grape Vine $8.95 Niagara Bunch Grape Vine $8.95 Darlene Muscadine - 2 Yr Bareroot $8.95 Triumph Muscadine - 2 Yr Bareroot$8.95 Supreme Muscadine - 2 Yr Bareroot $8.95 Elberta Peach Tree $22.95 Salavatski Russian Pomegranate $29.95 The Elberta peach was dead on arrival. I called and asked for a replacement and they insisted it was fine. (I scratched the bark and nothing was green and no other signs of life). I waited a month and then called again. They agreed to send a replacement and that also died within the first few months but I couldn’t get another replacement since they already replaced the peach once for the dead tree they sent me. Two of the muscadines and the pomegranate died over the winter and the rest of the muscadines died the following year. The only plants left are the 2 grape vines. I was so disappointed! Especially with the peach and pomegranate because they weren’t cheap. I have TONS of plants from other nurseries (apples, pears, cherries, plums, blueberries, blackberries, kiwis, figs) and I’ve never had plants die off at a rate like this. If I’d just lost one or even two I’d understand but this was insane.

Positive
On Apr 24, 2018, Canarykeeper (12 reviews) from Menlo, IA

Posted on June 26, 2017, updated April 24, 2018 Placed my very first order with them this Spring, and will never do so again. They mailed me a dead tree. And I can't get in touch with them. No one has answered my emails, and when I call customer service, no one picks up the phone. These people appear to be scam artists. Avoid.


On April 24th, 2018, Canarykeeper changed the rating from negative to positive and added the following: Refunded me the tree, and then shipped me a new one in January. It is alive and flowering.

Positive
On Apr 15, 2018, willisjw (10 reviews) from Frederick, MD

I ordered a Pomegranate from Ison's this year and I was blown away by the quality of the plant and the wonderful packing with moisture retentive gel.

Negative
On Mar 24, 2018, rserv (2 reviews) from Lexington, NC

Initial order for various plants (grapes, fruit trees) in late fall of 2016. Order never shipped until spring of 2017. Not impressed with plants; small size, evidence of pot bound rooting and overall plant quality. Had a number of failures coming out of dormancy. Problem with obtaining replacements was not resolved until early 2018 so we lost an entire growing season. Plants were replace by Ison's but quality again is suspect with same issues as noted in previous shipment. Communication with this company is sporadic; sometimes you get a response and other times you do not. Due to plant quality and lack of timely customer service to resolve problems, we resolve never to buy from this company in the future.

Positive
On Jan 27, 2017, jmiller57zzz (1 reviews) from Pensacola, FL

I planted some muscadines and fruit trees from Ison's two years ago and they have done so well. They grew much more than I expected and I have already been able to eat muscadines from my vines. The videos on their website are wonderful instructional videos as seeing it is so much easier to understand. Every time I have called and had questions they are so helpful and immediately get me the information I need. I just ordered some Black Beauty and Pam and can't wait to continue to increase my backyard vineyard. This is a great hobby for me and I hope to continue adding more fruits to my backyard. I recommend Ison's Nursery and look forward to continuing to do business with them!

Negative
On Oct 1, 2016, Grami (1 reviews) from Lowell, AR (Zone 7a)

Posted on May 12, 2016, updated October 1, 2016 I'm going to begin this comment as neutral because I've not yet contacted the company. I have, however, read their policy concerning plants that do not leaf out; and it seems bizarre that the same types of plants, shipped in the same year, but ordered from other companies are thriving while the Ison's plants are dead in close proximity. So, is it the conditions, or is it their plants? As a Master Gardener and food grower for over a decade, it seems to me that the issue is their plants. The packaging appeared to be good and damage-free. Their policy is to allow me to repurchase the failed plant at 1/2 price plus shipping. I am balking because I have no faith the next order will survive. I've lost an entire season, added amendments to soil, dug holes, carefully planned out growing conditions. . .and now I have to pay for a plant a second time. Here is what died or failed to emerge: 12 asparagus crowns, 2 Paw Paw trees, 2 Muscadine (their trademark plant), 1 Marionberry, and 2 raspberry. It seems like an enormous amount of loss in a fairly small order that was planted the next day after delivery. I think there is room for caution with this company; even though it was recommended in a book resource page. More later.


On October 1st, 2016, Grami changed the rating from neutral to negative and added the following: Moved the rating to negative because more plants died after Ison's deadline to file a complaint. The same type of plants from other companies, planted at the same time, in about the same area of the garden are thriving. I never did contact the company because their return policy wasn't worth the gamble. A fresh start with other suppliers proved to be a better option.

Negative
On Sep 8, 2016, TLHGardener (6 reviews) from Tallahassee, FL

This was my 2nd order from these people. First was tolerable but weak plants. This year, I ordered 7 apple trees and a number of muscadine vines earlier this year. It was a little late when I ordered them but I planted them promptly upon receipt at my farm. The muscadines were ok. They were in pots. But the apple trees were bareroot. And not much root at that. It looked like they had trimmed the roots aggressively. One of the trees never leafed out. It lived for a while on the nutrients it had---but then died. I babied it for three mos watering ---made a great hole to plant it. A second tree looks like it also will die but has been at the edge or darkness since planted. I wrote Ison's a month after their deadline for their HALF refund (which is tacky) and they did not even respond. Emailed again 3 wks later;no response. I tried my best w these plants. They are DOGS. And their customer service is doggy too. No way would I EVER order again from a company like this. I will buy trees from Petals from the Past which is not far from my farm next year.

Positive
On May 3, 2016, Englarman65 (1 reviews) from Sebastian, FL

I ordered 3 muscodine vines on 4/24/2016 a Supreme, Darlene and late fry. I recieved the vines on 3/30/2016 and planted them the same evening. A week or so later all vine had buds that were swelling and beginning to grow. A few days later the Supreme buds began to dry up. I called and they were so nice and immediately shipped out another vine. I recieved the replacement on 4/14/2016 and planted it that evening. In the two weeks plus the other two vines had began to grow. On 3/24/2016 there were signs of black rot on the Darlene vine. I called and it was the same thing , they were so nice and gave me some very good advice. I was told to spray with captan (I had already sprayed with copper) and to keep an eye on it and call back if anything changed. It did. I called again and they immediately shippec out another vine. I wish all companies cared about their customers like Ison's they are totally awesome. I highly recommend them and will alway be a customer.

Positive
On Mar 17, 2016, RozenKruetz (13 reviews) from Canyon Lake, TX (Zone 9a)

They ship when the plants are ready to be shipped (when fully dormant), so its not right after you order. I bought 4 muscadines, 2 blackberry vines, and a pair of elderberries. Took about a month before they shipped. All the plants arrived looking good and after an overnight soak were planted in their permanent locations. As of this moment they are all showing spring vigor and leafing out in full. Would definitely order from again, and plan to since they have some other interesting things.

Negative
On Mar 14, 2016, samhughey (1 reviews) from Byhalia, MS

Ordered 6 Muscadine plants on 3.2.16 and by 3.14.16 they have not shipped. I have emailed this company twice and still no response. My next contact will be VISA security to not pay the charge since this company obviously has no intention of shipping what I paid for.

Neutral
On Mar 2, 2016, Roiceadeolai (1 reviews) from Longwood, FL

Posted on February 12, 2016, updated March 2, 2016 Posted on February 11, 2016, updated February 12, 2016 Posted on February 4, 2016, updated February 11, 2016 I entered an order before the end of the year. Two-thirds of the shipment arrived weeks later, but they collected over $620 immediately even for back ordered materials. I have repeatedly asked for information on the rest of the vines and back ordered fertilizer and have gotten zero response since being told it was going to ship at the end of January. I have asked for a refund as the combination of vines, fertilizer, pecan trees, and shipping adds up to approximately $200. Nothing. I'm sure there will be a post claiming to be sorry, but this is just abysmal service. Do the right thing and refund my money. Invoice # 252327449 (Musc Plus:Carlos Plus) Carlos Muscadine - 2 Yr Plus Bareroot $12.95 X 1 = $12.95 (Musc Plus:Early Fry Plus) Early Fry Muscadine - 2Yr Plus Bareroot $12.95 X 1 = $12.95 (Musc Plus:Black Beauty Plus) Black Beauty Muscadine - 2 Yr Plus Bareroot $12.95 X 1 = $12.95 (Musc Plus:Cowart Plus) Cowart Muscadine - 2Year Plus Bareroot $12.95 X 1 = $12.95 (Musc Plus:Darlene Plus) Darlene Muscadine - 2 Yr Plus Bareroot $12.95 X 1 = $12.95 (Instant:Instant Stuart) Stuart Pecan Tree (I/O) $54.95 X 1 = $54.95 (Instant:Instant Desirable) Desirable Pecan Tree (I/O) $54.95 X 1 = $54.95 (Musc Plus:Creek Plus) Creek Muscadine - 2 Yr Plus Bareroot NEW $12.95 X 1 = $12.95 (FERT:Muscadine) Ison's Muscadine Custom Blend Fertilizer $11.99 X 4 = $47.96


On February 11th, 2016, Roiceadeolai added the following: JUST AMAZING!!! Asked for a refund for weeks and zero follow up, so within 24 hours of this post, guess what, my shipments were scheduled. Apparently they cannot read email or care about customer's getting screwed, just negative reviews here. So in the spirit of communications, I ordered replacements from Willis Orchard and apparently they understand the relationship between taking money and shipping products. Better quality vines and ON TIME! Buyer beware with Ison's is an understatement.
On February 11th, 2016, Roiceadeolai added the following:
On March 2nd, 2016, Roiceadeolai changed the rating from negative to neutral and added the following: Greg Ison did call and talk to me. He explained the seasonality of their business and did not make excuses, commenting that it should have been handled better. He took ownership of the problem, refunded money, sent a nice card, and thanked me for my business. My family has been dealing with them for decades and the goods once received were very good.

Positive
On Jan 25, 2016, alanlatour (1 reviews) from Tampa, FL

I just received my order from them, all of grapes and blackberries. It all looks good and seems to have arrived alive.

Negative
On Nov 13, 2015, GreenBugger (1 reviews) from Chicago, IL (Zone 6a)

Posted on May 12, 2015, updated November 13, 2015 This review is on the mail order aspect of the company. This company may be great if you live nearby or within driving distance, however, this company should not be doing business online because they simply do not care about their mail order customers. First of all, a mail order company must guarantee their plants/trees that they sell. 7 days is simply not long enough to evaluate whether a plant/tree is going to survive. I received trees in the mail, already leafed out when they should have been dormant, leaves dried and extremely stressed. Their guarantee states that the trees must be dead on arrival within seven days. These trees were alive and COULD make it, although very unlikely. The point being, it is going to take much longer than seven days to nurse these miserable trees back to health, which at that point will be well passed the guarantee. Is this done on purpose? It sure sounds like it, but why would a successful well established company need to do such a tactic to make money? If they cannot ship trees to a location and guarantee them to be healthy and in good shape, then they should not ship to these places. The money they would lose from this would be made up for by great positive reviews and customer feedback, which should bring in repeat customers. That has got to be better than the MANY 1 and done customers that they have now. Secondly, a mail order company has to be able to respond to customers emails, questions and calls in a timely manner. Many people who order through the mail and over the internet, do not call but choose to correspond through emails instead. Email is the modern form of communication and should be taken seriously. I have emailed this company on numerous occasions, simply receiving an automated email saying something like, "we will get in touch with you as soon as possible". Many emails later, there is NO response. Not one. Why is it so difficult to respond to an email? I do not see how ANY business in the modern age can get by without at least some email communication. Let alone a business that makes its money using an online website, where emails are the mainstream way for communicating with customers. The final nail in the coffin of this business, is that they don't even know what plants/trees you ordered! No company should ever ship the wrong item to any customer without some explanation as to why they are doing so. Understandably, substitutions occur all the time. But opening up a box and being surprised that a substitution has occurred is not the way to handle the situation. If you do not have the item that was ordered you need to contact the customer and ask if he/she would like a substitution or a refund for that item. Again, this would fall under better communication skills. Although, at this point, I would settle for ANY communication. I ordered trees, which apparently were not available, so I got something else instead. Surprise, way to go, just give me any old tree and maybe I'll be happy and shut up. I probably would have, but maybe, just maybe, this should have been asked first, hmmm? So what is the point of this negative review? To have my trees replaced and the situation fixed? Of course, I would love that! I work hard for my money after all and I would like to feel good about spending it on something I enjoyed. As of right now, I feel pretty sick that I got mistreated so badly. I feel as if I was duped by a very tricky scam artist and my money is just, gone. I doubt this will happen. If it does, this review will still stay negative, because it does not change the fact that all of these things need to be addressed by this company if they are to stay in business as a mail order nursery. I sell plants myself. I do not sell plants online nor would I ever attempt to do so, no matter how much money I might make. I know my limitations and I know I could not offer the kind of guarantee that I offer my customers in person. Many mail order companies can make that guarantee and are very successful at it. I suggest that Isons contact some of these companies and inquire as to how they go about doing such good business online and through the mail. It can be done. Please stop creating unhappy customers. It's bad for the entire plant/nursery business overall. Fix your problems and fill this page with positive feedback. These reviews do not show us a company that has been operating since 1934.


On November 13th, 2015, GreenBugger added the following: I've been waiting a year for this company to rectify the problem. Either replace my trees or give me back my money. They would rather replace my trees than give me back my money, so Janet would have me believe in her wonderful commentary of a PR person. Turns out, they don't want to do anything! I've been promised that a replacement order would be sent out. I waited a whole year and when it comes time to verify that they indeed would be sending out replacement trees, I get the response that they have no idea who I am or what I am talking about. So I have to go through the process all over again. I say again to anyone who is thinking about doing business with these people Online, Do Not Do It! If you live within driving distance, do what you will, but these people should not have an online business, period. At this point I am going to have to seek legal action against this company. I will not be treated like this and I don't believe anyone should be. If they have no intention of following through on their promises, then they should come right out and say it, give me back the money I spent and let us part ways in the night, never to see each other again. I would have higher regard for someone like this rather than the sneaky underhanded things this company is doing to its online customers. This review is just an update to say that things were Not resolved and everything Janet promised has not come to pass. I wanted so badly to post a positive transaction that had lifted this company higher in my eyes than before but that unfortunately is not the case. Stay away from this company, they have no idea what it takes to run a successful online business.
Company representative comment on May 13, 2015:
On May 13, 2015 11:29 AM, Ison's Nursery & Vineyard responded with:

First off let me start by sincerely apologizing for the bad experience you have had with our company. Our customer satisfaction is very important to us.

Secondly, let me tell you that we want to do everything we can to make this right for you. Beginning April, we are short staffed in our office to due the operations outside the business. With the extreme difficult winter we had 2014 we lost a lot of plants and had to limit our staff as much as possible until our inventory is back. We have just completed all of our potting and will have an excellent inventory this coming year. When you have a limited staff, unfortunately things don't always get done as they should and for that I am extremely sorry.

We do guarantee that the plants you receive are alive upon receipt. If you are unhappy with the plants your receive you have 7 days to contact us for a full refund. You can tell if the plants are alive even if they are not leafed out. When you scratch the bark you should see green. We state if they fail to leaf out by July 1st we will replace the following year at half price. We take half the responsibility and let the customer take half the responsibility. There are so many factors involved in if a plant will survive. Weather, soil conditions, quality of plants, care after planted and more. I wish we could guarantee that every plant we sell will live and produce no matter what but that is impossible. Even when we plant our own plants we consider 80% livability to be a success. Sometimes you cannot determine the exact cause a plant does not survive. So we take half the responsibility. I understand you got your trees already leafed out. Here they did start leafing out some and our guys did ship them with leaves on them. We have many customers that still want to receive trees and plants in late April and May. That is why we discount the trees during that time as well. By this time alot of plants are leafed out. It definitely is not the most ideal situation but usually the plants do recover and we try to get them to the customer as quickly as possible. If your plants do not survive I will be happy to replace these for you a not costs this coming shipping season and would need to ship them to you much earlier in the season. Here in Georgia, by April and May lots of trees are budding and leafing out.

As far as responding to your emails, with a limited staff we did drop the ball in that area. Our first priority in the office are the customers that walk in the door. After that it is the phones that are ringing. Then we try to respond to our emails. We do respond to most but have been unable to respond to all. Every email is important but we just were not able to answer each one and for that I am tremendously sorry. We are working on a better system to be able to respond and have the staff available to reply. It is difficult to respond to an email when you have an office full of customers and phones ringing as well as other work needing to be done. We hope to have someone dedicated this coming year to do nothing but answer emails so we can stay on top of that.

By the end of the season we are selling out of many products. We do substitute but only when absolutely necessary. There should have been a letter in your invoice stating what was being done and why. Apparently that did not happen as well. We again dropped the ball and failed to provide you with the excellent service we strive for. Again, I am so very sorry for your poor experience.

I understand that your money is valued and we want to make sure you receive what your ordered and the best possible plants. I am so sorry that you had such a bad experience with our business and would like to do all I can to make this right for you. My grandfather started our business in 1934 and each and every customer is very important to us. I understand we did not get it right with you but I can assure you we did get it right for many many of our customers and they hare very satisfied with out business and happy with our plants. Unfortunately, those customers do not take the time to posts a positive review. You will find it is the customers with bad experiences that do. Yes we got it wrong with you and some other customers but we do get it right most of the time.

Please contact me as soon as possible. My name is Janet Ison. I want to work with you to make sure you get everything taken care of and to let you know we are a quality business that has been providing quality plants to our customers since 1934. We are in NO WAY A TRICKY SCAM ARTIST!!! We care about each and every customer and their needs and will do all we can to help you in anyway. Sincerely, Janet Ison

Positive
On Sep 11, 2015, ccoombs1 (3 reviews) from Lugoff, SC

Early this morning, My husband and got in my car and drove 4 hours to isons. I wanted to grow some muscadines and was hoping to get some advise about varieties and planting. Greg Ison (I believe that was his name) was just wonderful! He took us into the vineyard, letting us taste each of the grapes on our list and showed us exactly how to plant , prune and care for our new plants for maximum growth and productivity. We left there with 16 beautiful healthy new muscadine vines as well as everything we need to set up our irrigation system. The one on one instructions alone were worth the drive. I am so pleased. I'll be getting some other plants bare root later on. I highly recommend Isons!

Negative
On Jul 7, 2015, Threestripe (1 reviews) from New London, NC

Posted on May 5, 2015, updated July 7, 2015 Posted on April 13, 2015, updated May 5, 2015 I bought an asian pear, fig, two grapes and an asian persimmon last spring. The persimmon and the fig never leafed out. One of the grapes died after about three months. The pear is doing well. I called to let ison that the pear anf fig did not live. I did not realize what ison return policy was. They wanted me to pay 1/2 price for replacements. After a lot of discussion they agreed to replace for free. They replacements came this winter. I planted them in large pots this time and did not leaf out again. So out of seven plants only two survived. I am not a rookie. I have a degree in horticulture and manage 20 acres of greenhouse at metrolina greenhouses. I do not recommend to buy from ison.


On May 5th, 2015, Threestripe added the following: Sent two emails with no response but I still get ad emails from them! Do not buy from them! Very poor customer service!
On July 7th, 2015, Threestripe added the following: I have called and emailed several times with no response. Janet, how can I contact you?
Company representative comment on May 13, 2015:
On May 13, 2015 11:38 AM, Ison's Nursery & Vineyard responded with:

I am so very sorry for the bad experience you received from our business. Our guarantee is in our catalog as well as our website. We do guarantee that the plants you receive are alive upon receipt. If you are unhappy with the plants your receive you have 7 days to contact us for a full refund. We state if they fail to leaf out by July 1st we will replace the following year at half price. We take half the responsibility and let the customer take half the responsibility. With you being a grower I am sure you understand there are so many factors involved in if a plant will survive. Weather, soil conditions, quality of plants, care after planted and more. We have had many customers that put their tree or vine in the ground and never water, fertilize or care for it. There is no way we can guarantee the care the plant receives after it leaves us. I wish we could guarantee that every plant we sell will live and produce no matter what but that is impossible. Even when we plant our own plants we consider 80% livability to be a success. Sometimes you cannot determine the exact cause a plant does not survive. So we take half the responsibility.

I am sorry you did not realize this. I do not understand why your replacement plants did not survive. Our persimmons take a long time to leaf out hear and sometimes do not even leaf out until June. I am hoping your tree will still leaf out. I would like to know exactly what we sent you and to be given an opportunity to take care of your problems. Your business is very important to us. I cannot explain why you had difficult experience. As far as the emails, we have had a very limited staff in the last month and unfortunately we sometimes fail to respond to each email.

My name is Janet Ison. Please contact me as soon as you can and let me help make this right. Our customers are vital to our business and each and every one is very important to us. We will do all we can to take care of your concerns and problems. Thanks, Janet Ison
Read more: http://davesgarden.com/products/gwd/c/1023/#ixzz3a2LpDHhH

Neutral
On May 31, 2015, Klytle (1 reviews) from Mobile, AL

Your website redirects me to a google frame malware site when trying to search through your site. Also when I try to add ANY muscadine to my shopping cart it says you are out of stock. Are you really out of stock of every single plant??? your description states you will send out potted plants at any time of the year. I have bought from isons for many years and have always been very satisfied. i would prefer not to order from another company but it's starting to look like I will have too! It's really hard to maneuver around your website when it keeps redirecting me!

Negative
On May 16, 2015, jensjo (1 reviews) from Spring, TX

Please note this is not a review on the product since I did not receive it. This is about their customer service. I can honestly say I gave them every chance to answer and they were not helpful at all. I ordered some berries and other things. spent around $70.00. everything seemed OK I got my tracking info, watched it like a hawk. took some time off to make sure I'll be here for the delivery. next thing I know the tracking status is showing delivered! i know for a fact it didn't get delivered because I was there! I send an email to Ison right away. Any how, I figured is not their fault since apparently something got shipped (or at least I think so based on the fact that got a tracking number from them) so I sent an e mail to them where I explained what happened. 3 days later I got a very short reply saying my order had shipped, then a date, and the carrier. I'm thinking: wow! did you not read my question? I have been tracking it, so yes. I know who the carrier is. I know when it shipped. What I need to know where it is. After all, it's not my fedex account. They should be the ones calling in to check on it. I was trying to be calm and just e mailed back saying: I know that. I have been tracking it. Please read my original e mail below. They replied something along the lines of we tracked the package and it looks like it delivered on such and such date. At this point I'm getting irritated because all they have done so far is repeat everything I have already told them. so I replied saying please don't repeat what I've already told you can you just check on the delivery? and I haven't heard from them in days. I'm very irritated with their customer service. I have a job and very little free time. I don't have time for this back and forth where all I get are unusable answers and 0 solutions. I just think It's not fair that I'm taking all the risk here. they got paid and now they couldn't care less. GREAT! ohh well. I'm over this. no more online nurseries for me.

Positive
On Apr 30, 2015, TwistedCreek (1 reviews) from Hillsboro, OH

Posted on May 6, 2014, updated April 30, 2015 Posted on April 28, 2014, updated May 6, 2014 NO CUSTOMER SERVICE I received a 4-in-one-cherry tree several days ago, and it only had three varieties. The 4th graft had failed long ago, as it was brown and healed. The worst part is, they sold it anyway, knowing it was only three, as they put the tag for the 4th variety around the trunk because there was no branch to put it on! I have tried calling every day, and at different hours. All I ever get is a recording, at both customer service numbers. I left a message - no return call. I emailed. Sent photos. No response. Don't count on getting any help from this company. If they mess up your order, - too bad, so sad. FAIL


On May 6th, 2014, TwistedCreek changed the rating from negative to positive and added the following: I am very impressed with the fact that Ison's has gone over and above in an attempt to make good on my problem. They are a company that not only takes care of their mistakes, but also works hard towards keeping a customer happy and bringing them back again. How a company handles mistakes and problems says more about them than if the order was correct in the first place. Thank you Ison's. You've turned a negative into a positive.
On April 30th, 2015, TwistedCreek added the following: So now it's a year later, and I have to say that Janet Ison actually sent my replacement cherry tree this spring without me having to do anything. I really didn't believe she would. Just goes to show you that they keep their word.

Negative
On Apr 9, 2015, shorowitz24 (2 reviews) from Crozet, VA

TODAY I was told on the telephone that my tree order of $400.00+ was shipped YESTERDAY and that the price of the trees had been reduced by 30% at midnight YESTERDAY. According to FedEx, shipment info regarding my order was sent to them TODAY and they picked up my shipment TODAY, when the prices were 30% less than I was charged. Not very thoughtful of Ison's, when they had every opportunity to charge me TODAY's current price instead of $125.00 more.


Company representative comment on May 13, 2015:
On May 13, 2015 11:40 AM, Ison's Nursery & Vineyard responded with:

When you place an order online we have not control of when you are charged and how. We will be happy to refund you the difference in the price. Please contact us as soon as you can and let me take care of this for you.

We do start dropping the prices on items that are overstocked. I apologize for taking so long to respond to your comment.

Please give me a call as soon as possible! Janet Ison

Negative
On Apr 8, 2015, ktuvam2k3 (1 reviews) from Raeford, NC

I had placed an order and had to take a sudden trip so I emailed as well as called Isons to change the date of my shipment of grape vines. I was told this was no problem and they would be shipped out to me in Mid-March. As I was absent, a box arrived in my yard, my neighbor who was kind enough to get it can not read where it was from, so I asked her to open it. My neighbor is classed as Special needs so I can not expect her to care for them so asked her to place the box in my shed. The next day I called and was told if able to send the box back. I explained I would not return home for almost a month and could not return to sender because box was opened. I was told not to worry, a new order will be shipped out on the date I requested. When I got home, the vines were already dried (they snapped like twigs), so I trashed them thinking I'll be fine with my order coming in. I have emailed them starting the beginning of March 2015 as well as calling and leaving messages. At first I was just trying to let them know I was ready for them and they could ship anytime...now after several attempts by emails and messages left, I have not heard from anyone regarding this matter. This upsets me a lot because I feel I'm being avoided and ignored. :(


Company representative comment on May 13, 2015:
On May 13, 2015 11:44 AM, Ison's Nursery & Vineyard responded with:

I am so very sorry for the poor experience you had with our business. Your plants should have been held and not shipped until the date you requested. I am not sure what happened and I am looking into it. We definitely dropped the ball and I regret that.

I want to ensure that you receive all the plants you ordered in quality condition. Please contact me by phone at the nursery (770) 599-6970. I am in the office 9-5. Our phones are slowing down now and you should be able to get through. If you receive the voice mail please hang up and call again in a few minutes until one of us answers.

Your satisfaction is so very important to us and I will do everything possible to take care of your plant needs. Again, I am so sorry you did not receive the quality service we strive for. Sincerely, Janet Ison

Positive
On Jan 26, 2015, Japple002 (1 reviews) from Dallas,
United States

I love this place! Great people and customer care every time I walk in the door is wonderful! I appreciate the time they have taken to get me sorted out on planting new vines, and how much time one associate personally took with me, staying on the line with me while I took all the notes I could as this is their field of expertise. I know I probably kept you from taking other calls, but I appreciate the time you spent on making sure I was planting right in order to see a fruitful harvest. THANK YOU ISONS!!!!

Positive
On Jan 25, 2015, SE_1969 (1 reviews) from Raleigh, NC

Long time customer. I've purchased many fruit trees and muscadine vines from Ison's over the years and have always been pleased with their service and products. Highly recommend.

Negative
On Jan 21, 2015, zaffutos (1 reviews) from Loranger, LA

I have been a Isons customer for over 4 years. I have bought trees shrubs and over 30 muscadine plants for myself and family members. I tried both calling and emailing them about a issue I had in ordering but could not use my promo code. Never got a answer. Monday I called 01-19-15 asking about 6 muscadine vines that are beautifu vines but have not produced a single grape. I was told Mr. Ison would call me back. since it was 9am I figured I would get a call that evening but did not hear from him. Tuesday I called back and was told he would call me in a few hours. Again never heard from him. Today 01-21-15 3pm and still haven't heard from him. Guess he is to busy to worry about people that have already spent money with them.

Positive
On Nov 18, 2014, FruitbyDesign (1 reviews) from Dolomite, AL

Have bought plants for years from Isons. Have always been pleased with plants, service and especially prices. All of my muscadine vines, fruit trees and blueberry plants in my home orchard have come from Isons. Happy long time customer. Highly recommend.

Negative
On Jul 2, 2014, agfonthort (1 reviews)

I ordered 2 raspberry plants and 4 blackberry plants, all bare root, from them in May 2014. A couple looked like they were in bad shape, but I planted them all, as suggested by Isons and waited. Only three leafed out. The others are dead. I suspect that they were dead on arrival. I contacted Isons to complain and also to take advantage of their plant guarantee to replace the dead plants. They never returned my emails. I won't be buying from them in the future.

Negative
On May 25, 2014, carbcarb (1 reviews) from Clifton, NJ

I purchased several pear trees and a Pakistan Mulberry Tree on March 2013. One pear tree and the mulberry tree didn't leaf out for last summer. Tried to call the company, but never got a chance to speak to someone. Felt very frustrated. This spring, the appear-to-be-dead pear tree finally leaf out. But the mulberry tree is totally dead after I dug it out and examined the roots.

Negative
On May 5, 2014, jujube11 (1 reviews) from North Wales, PA

I bought 2 jujube trees (one Sherwood one Li) from Ison's in 2010, didn't survive in the following winter. Paid 50% of the regular tree price and got the replacement in 2011. Each year, the trees have lots of flowers but not a single fruit. A few days ago, just looked at the record and realized this would be the 4th spring! The bigger disappointment is to my kids who excitedly told me each spring that the trees sprouted then flowered, then came with the same disappointing summer and fall! Called the customer a couple years ago, although one of the ladies was very nice, no explanations offered.

Negative
On Apr 30, 2014, bessie89 (3 reviews) from Hearne, TX (Zone 8b)

I ordered an Instant Orchard Angel Pomegranate tree in December and received the tree this spring. I was happy to see its size. It being bare of leaves and bareroot did not bother me, as I have ordered/received other plants from other nurseries in similar fashion (this is not new to me). I immediately washed the gel that the root ball was wrapped in and planted the tree according to instructions. Again, planting a bare root and/or dormant tree/plant is not new to me. However, all of my other trees and plants have broken dormancy at this point and are leafed out, some are even rather bushy and have begun to bare fruit. This is not the case with the Angel Pomegranate tree. I don't see how it could be considered an Instant Orchard when it appears to be dead. It has not leafed out whatsoever. I check it every day and no change at all. I tried calling Isons, but was not able to speak with anyone. So, I emailed them several weeks ago inquiring to know if this is normal for this variety (late break in dormancy), but again, no luck. I have not received a reply. When I ordered, I was hesistant due to their guarantee of reshipping at 50% for a replacement but I had such wonderful experiences and results from others, such as Nature Hills and Bay Laurel Nursery that I didn't think anything would be amiss. Well, I regret this mistake. I found another Angel Red tree locally that was fully leafed out and blooming, so I purchased that one for less than the Isons tree, so I don't care to have a replacement shipped out, especially at additional cost to me. I'm sorry I took a chance with Isons and I would not recommend them. Save your money and time. They don't make it easy to communicate with them to help resolve issues. I bet if there was a problem with my method of payment, they would have contacted me immediately.

Negative
On Mar 25, 2014, chstrcopperpot (1 reviews) from Morehead City, NC

I bought grapes, elderberries, and on impulse a pineapple guava. I bought the pineapple guava simply because I wanted to feel like I was getting a good deal on shipping. I got the shipment and the bare root plants look like normal bare root plants, just a stick. The pineapple guava (an evergreen) had lost all of its leaves but two and was not very supple. I tried repeatedly to call them, but got no answer or return call so I took pictures and emailed them to ask about the plant. I kept calling and eventually got through and they said that it shouldn't look like that and they'll send a replacement. Then, I get an email asking if want a refund because all the pineapple guavas were damaged by the extreme cold. I respond that I would rather have a refund than a plant next year and then they send me another plant. It gets to me and there are no leaves on it. When I called, I was told that I should just wait and see if it leafs out and that damage in shipping is normal. This doesn't appear to be shipping damage and I paid for what I assumed would be healthy plants. I suppose I should be happy I got two for one, but I didn't order dead plants. This makes me worried about the grapes and berries that won't leaf out for a while yet.

Neutral
On Feb 9, 2014, backyardgrowing (3 reviews) from Littlerock, CA

Posted on July 9, 2013, updated February 10, 2014 Posted on June 16, 2013, updated July 9, 2013 I ordered three table grapevines (concord, neptune and reliance). Of the three only neptune and reliance had good root systems. The concord vine was small and had a weak root system.I planted all three and 1 month later my suspicion was correct. The concord vine did not leaf out and was dry/dead. I contacted them 3 TIMES VIA e-mail with no response. BUY AT YOUR OWN RISK. THEY HAVE NO REPLACEMENT GUARANTEE.


On July 9th, 2013, backyardgrowing changed the rating from neutral to negative and added the following: Update: They responded to my e-mail. In order to get a replacement I have to pay half of the original purchase price. They send me a dead grape vine and yet i have to pay half for a replacement. DO NOT BUY FROM THIS COMPANY!!!!!!!!!!!!! GO WITH STARKBROS.COM OR GROWORGANIC.COM
On February 9th, 2014, backyardgrowing changed the rating from negative to neutral and added the following: Last month i received a free replacement from them. Better communication on their part would avoid bad feedback. Their prices are reasonable and one of the cheapest prices. Thank You Ison's Nursery & Vineyard.
Company representative comment on August 13, 2013:
On Aug 13, 2013 4:30 PM, Ison's Nursery & Vineyard responded with:

I am so sorry to here of the problems you had with our nursery. I cannot explain why it took so long for you to get a response to your emails. I have several on staff whose job is to respond and address the needs of each email we receive daily. Your satisfaction is very important to us.

If any customer is not happy with the plant at the time they receive it, they have 30 days to ask for a replacement or a full refund. We do have a policy that if your plants fail to leaf out by July 1st that we will replace the following year at half price. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the care the plant receives after it is planted, the conditions in which it is planted such as soil quality nor can we guarantee the weather. We have had many customers who have planted their vines and never watered or fertilized them. For that reason, we implemented a 50% replacement policy. We are a 3rd generation family business and do our best to meet every need of our customers.

We would like to provide you with a full refund of the cost of the vine that you ordered. Your satisfaction is extremely important to us. We would also like to offer our apology for the problems you experienced with our nursery. Our customers make our business and we do all that we can to meet the needs of our customers and provide excellent quality plants for their home garden needs.

We do our best to send out the highest quality plants. Unfortunately, we cannot get up all the orders personally ourselves as owners and depend on our staff to fill orders. I sincerely regret that you received a substandard plant and will do everything possible to ensure your satisfaction. We have been in business since 1934 and pride ourselves in our longevity and quality service we provide.

Please contact us as soon as possible and allow us to take care of this for you. Sincerely, Janet Ison

Positive
On Sep 1, 2013, RobThomas (20 reviews) from Readyville, TN

Posted on July 16, 2013, updated September 1, 2013 Posted on December 18, 2012, updated July 16, 2013 Posted on September 26, 2012, updated December 18, 2012 Posted on February 9, 2012, updated September 26, 2012 I have been very pleased with Ison's. I contacted Ison's both before and after placing my order. I called with general questions, once to change my order, and a couple of times to check status of the shipment. They always answered promptly and were knowledgeable about their products. I ordered 5 varieties of blackberries, 2 blueberry bushes, 3 muscadine vines, and 3 types of trees. I received the order about a week and a half ago. For the most part, everything appears healthy and as described on their website. I'll need to keep an eye on a couple of the blackberry plants. The Navaho had no branching and the stalk was approx. 1 inch in diameter, which seems very thick for a young plant. The Arapaho has branching and is of the correct size, but appears to have severe die back. I'll keep a close eye on both of these over the next several weeks and report back. The remaining blackberry, blueberry, and muscadine plants all look good. The fig tree also looks nice and is much larger than I expected. The almond tree is a little shorter than described, but has very nice branching. The Jujube description indicated the tree would be 4-5' branched. The tree was of the correct height, but all limbs had been completely pruned away leaving just a long stick. However, this could be normal pruning for this type of tree. Overall, considering the great customer service, the user friendly website, and the good condition of most of the plants, I am very satisfied. I just wish I had ordered one or two more muscadines!


On September 26th, 2012, RobThomas added the following: I wanted to give an update since my original posting. The three trees I ordered (jujube, almond, fig) have all done very well. The almond tree put out a lot of growth over the summer. The jujube is a slow grower, but is very healthy. The fig had die back from a late freeze, but put out new growth from the base. The blackberry plants have grown like crazy. Looking forward to fresh blackberries next year. The only issues I've had have been with the muscadine vines. I placed two orders for a total of five vines. Sadly, only two survived. From reading reviews here and elsewhere, it seems bare root muscadines have a tendency to leaf out, but then die back to the ground. They may or may not resprout from the roots. All of mine leafed out, but on most the leaves would later turn brown and fall off. The original vines died, but a couple did sprout from the roots. I didn't ask for replacements since all the plants did leaf out before dying back. Overall, considering the good customer service and quality plants, I still give Ison's a positive rating. I'm just not sure I'd order bare root muscadines again.
On December 18th, 2012, RobThomas added the following: No muscadines this time, but I did order and receive two pomegranate plants. These are the hard to find cold hardy "Russian" type poms. The introductory price of $16.95 for 2' - 3' plants was very good. The actual plants were taller than advertised- 3.5' - 4' and very well branched with good roots. Very pleased when a company provides better than expected products and/or service.
On July 16th, 2013, RobThomas changed the rating from positive to neutral and added the following: I sent Ison's an email in May advising that one of the two pomegranates had never leafed out, and that a scratch test showed the tree to be dead. They replied with, "Sorry, they are sold out for the season. We will send a replacement in the fall". That response was perfectly acceptable - a no hassle offer of replacement. However, nearly two months later I receive a letter in the mail stating that they will replace the tree for 1/2 cost plus shipping. If that is their standard policy then fine, but that wasn't the offer I received via email. They can offer any guarantee they want, but to make one offer of unconditional replacement, then renege on that offer later is unacceptable and goes against any standard of customer service. I'm not one to lightly rate a company below "positive", and of my multiple company ratings, Ison's is the only to ever get anything less than positive. But, considering that three of five muscadines died back to the ground (which I never asked them to replace), one of two pomegranates were dead, and the renege on the offer of replacement, I think a rating of "neutral" is more than generous.
On September 1st, 2013, RobThomas changed the rating from neutral to positive and added the following: I've just recently read Ison's response to my review. I appreciate that they have reached out, and I do believe they truly value customer service. I haven't contacted Ison's yet, but am changing my rating back to positive based on their efforts to make things right.
Company representative comment on August 13, 2013:
On Aug 13, 2013 4:40 PM, Ison's Nursery & Vineyard responded with:

In regard to your posting, I wanted to respond and offer my services in ensuring your satisfaction with our nursery! I apologize for the misunderstanding as far as our replacement policy. We will be happy to replace your pomegranate tree at no costs to you.

Our replacement policy is posted in our catalog as well as our website. We try to make sure it is accessible to our customers. I do agree that the email you received was misleading and not clear and for that I am very sorry!

We want to ensure your satisfaction and that you have quality plants from our nursery. Please allow us to replace the muscadines you lost as well as the pomegranates that did not leaf out. We have been shipping bareroot plants since 1970 and have not had any problems with these types of plants. We actually plant bareroot vines in our vineyards and have great success with these vines. There are many factors that can affect the reason your vines died back. For that reason, it is not always possible to determine the exact cause.

Please contact us immediately and give your information so we can get your plants replaced this coming shipping season. Your satisfaction is very important to us and we will do all that we can to ensure your planting success!

Thank You! Janet Ison

Negative
On Aug 8, 2013, pecantreesucker (1 reviews) from Houston, TX

POEPLE,RUN,RUN,RUN,FROM ISON'S. IF YOU LIKE MAKING THIS COMPANY MONEY BUY PURCHASING THEIR DEAD PLANTS AND TREES THEN YOU GOT THE RIGHT PLACE. I CAN'T BELIEVE THEY WOULD SEND OUT A PECAN TREE WITHOUT ANY SIGNS OF GROWTH, YES JUST A 3 FT STICK, AND THEN WANT ANOTHER 50% TO SEND ANOTHER TREE OUT. NOT ME SUCKER, STIFF ME ONCE, SHAME ON YOU,STIFF ME TWICE SHAME ON ME. CUSTOMER BEWARE THEY WILL TELL YOU HOW GREAT THEY ARE BUT YOU ARE ROLLING THE DICE,GOOD LUCK


Company representative comment on August 13, 2013:
On Aug 13, 2013 4:11 PM, Ison's Nursery & Vineyard responded with:

I would like to sincerely apologize for the poor service you have received from our nursery. We strive to provide the highest quality trees and service to our customer. Unfortunately, sometimes mistakes do happen. We would never intentionally send out a tree that is not alive and/or in poor condition. Unfortunately, we as owners cannot fill every order ourselves and depend on our staff. Sometimes they fail to provide our customers with the highest quality possible. We will continue to work on ensuring that does not happen again.

We will be more than happy to send you a full refund for the pecan tree you ordered from us. We do have a policy that if you receive a tree from us and are not happy with it when you receive you, that you have 30 days to let us know and we will issue a full refund. If you plant it and it fails to leaf out by July 1st we will replace at half price the following year. I am so sorry that we disappointed you in our business. We are a 3rd generation family business and provide ourselves in offering our customers the best service possible.

If you could contact our office and give us the information we will immediately issure you a refund. Again, please accept my deepest apology for the poor service you received. In the future, I hope you will give us another try and you can ask for me personally. Just ask for Janet Ison.

Negative
On Jul 5, 2013, imaginefarm (3 reviews) from Perry, GA

I have ordered from Isons in the past and been very pleased. I tried to order from them in the spring of 2013. I called, I sent emails, no contact. I was trying to spend money and they would not return phone calls. Very poor customer service.


Company representative comment on August 13, 2013:
On Aug 13, 2013 4:46 PM, Ison's Nursery & Vineyard responded with:

I am so sorry with the difficulty you received trying to contact our nursery. We begin our potting season in the Spring of 2013 and have a smaller staff in our office. We have had issues with our email provided and have since resolved these problems. Our customers are very important to us and are the sole reason our business is successful!

Please allow us in the future to assist you. My name is Janet and I am one of the owners here. We will be fully staffed back in the office in September and we are currently answering our emails daily. We will begin our shipping season in early November.

We have been in business since 1934 and we are a 3rd generation family business. My grandfather started our business on a small scale growing muscadine vines. We have since added products and grown to what we are now.

Again, I am very sorry for the difficulties you had with contacting our nursery! I hope you will give us a call again and feel free to ask for me personally!

Sincerley, Janet Ison

Positive
On Apr 30, 2013, grablejc (3 reviews) from Roanoke, IN

I ordered a bunch of Gooseberry, Currant, and Elderberry plants (36 in all) in February 2013. Plants shipped in early March and since it was still cold in Northern Indiana, I heeled them into a couple of pots in the garage. Most all of the plants are now planted outside and are leafing and budding like crazy. A couple of the currant plants didn't look well but I believe they recognized that because there were a few extra. The plants had huge root systems. I am very pleased and have added them as a favorite. Will buy from again.

Positive
On Apr 1, 2013, BecwarGardeners (1 reviews) from Manvel, TX

We ordered 2 muscadines almost two years ago now. We actually ended up receiving one that was mislabeled and then a replacement. So... three grapevines total in the end. All three are THRIVING! We are anticipating a great little harvest of grapes (can already see tons of little ones) this year. As a result, we are EAGERLY awaiting our latest order of a Persimmon, a Pineapple Guava, a Fig, a Goji Berry and ANOTHER grape! We love their service, and their products thus far. We have already recommended highly to friends!

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